ORDER OF WORSHIP | DECEMBER 31, 2023 | 10:00 AM HYBRID SERVICE
We are committed to being an antiracist, anti-oppressive congregation. We celebrate people of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientations. We honor our spiritual connection to the earth and all living things.
Before the service: You may light a candle for the joys and sorrows in your heart. Please respect those seeking silence.
Opening Welcome
David Hopkinson, Worship Associate
Announcements
Les Solomon
Prelude
Clair de Lune from Suite Bergamasque, by Claude Debussy
Heidi Souza, piano
Opening Greeting
David Hopkinson
Come, come, whoever you are,
Whomever you love,
Whatever your image of the Holy,
Your presence here is a gift.
All are worthy, all are welcome.
Lighting the Chalice
David Hopkinson
May this flame,
symbol of transformation since time began,
fire our curiosity,
strengthen our wills,
and sustain our courage
as we seek what is good within and around us.
Call to Worship
Liz Wiley, Chair of Worship Ministry
Opening Hymn
SLT #319 “Ye Earthborn Children of a Star”
From the Heart
Natalie Miller-Moore
Meditation & Prayer
Dan Moore
Sharing Our Gifts
Online Giving
Text-to-Give: 757-500-0688
In-Person Giving: Place offerings in the collection plates as they’re passed during the service.
This week’s offering will benefit the Minister’s Charitable Giving Fund, which helps people in our congregation and in the larger community who need short-term help paying rent and other essential expenses. Your gifts will help shelter homeless families, pay utility bills in the cold of winter, and offer hope in times of despair. Thank you so much for your generosity.
Offertory Music
Prelude No. 1 in C major from the Well-Tempered Clavier, by Johann Sebastian Bach
Heidi Souza, piano
Reflection Part 1
Liz Wiley
From the Heart
Asha McLaughlin
Reflection Part 2
Liz Wiley
Closing Hymn
SLT #338 “I Seek the Spirit of a Child”
Extinguishing the Chalice
David Hopkinson
In this new year, let us be amazed.
Let us awaken to our senses
Let us wonder at the dance between wick and flame
In this new year, let us be amazed.
Closing Words
by Sarah Moores Campbell
Liz Wiley
SLT=Gray Hymnal | STJ=Teal Hymnal
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